Varanasi is all set to promote tourism in a wonderful way by organizing Kashi balloon and boat festival. This 4-day festival was organized last year as well, especially to welcome the SCO delegates.’
At the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Council of Heads of State, Varanasi was nominated as the first cultural and tourism capital 2022-23. To celebrate, the UP government invited SCO delegation that includes eight countries, named Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Russia, China, India and Pakistan. To let these delegates have a taste of Varanasi’s culture and history, the balloon and boat festival in Kashi was organized. After having a successful event last year, to maintain the tradition, this year also the festival is going to take place.
Now let’s have a look at what this innovative festival has in store for everyone.
An Overview on Kashi Balloon Festival
In the colorful hot air balloon festival in Varanasi, the spectators will be able to experience a unique view of the city’s breathtaking temples and ghats from high up in the sky, admiring the expanse of unique temples and ghats, the Kashi temples scape, and the throng of pilgrims taking dip in holy water. The hot air balloonist crew have come from six countries around the world with ten ethereal balloons ready to soar. As night falls and these magnificent balloons take off into the clouds, you can expect to be mesmerized by a profusion of color and light. Be sure to join this extraordinary event – it’s one experience you won’t forget.
An Overview on Kashi Boat Festival
The ancient city of Varanasi is taking adventure travel to new heights with its innovative Boat Racing Festival. The mesmerizing balloon festival will be followed by this boat festival. It is a competition, featuring twelve teams of professional boat rowers and traditional boatmen competing on the waters of the Ganga River. This race, held in traditional ‘Naukas’ vessels, promises to be a unique experience for the new-age travelers seeking thrills and cultural enrichment.
The professionally trained local teams that will take part in this competition are named as Nauka Riders, Ghat Keepers, Navik Sena, Bhagirathi Sevaks, Ganga Vahini, Ganga Putra, Jal Yodhas, Jal Sena, Ganga Lahiri, Gaumukh Giants, etc. The race will start from the famous Dashaswamedh ghat and cover Mehta Ghat, Raj Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Dham, and Panch Ganga Ghat. The competitors will ride 15 feet long traditional boats of Kashi every day in this 4-day long event to collect points. The team with maximum points will win and get a prize money of 2.10 lakhs.
Needless to say, this festival has the potential to become a landmark event on the global adventure tourism scene. So if you’re looking for an exciting way to experience the heart and soul of Varanasi, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
What Cuisines You Can Enjoy During The Festival:
To make your trip to Varanasi during the balloon and boat festival flavorsome, don;lt forget to indulge in these local cuisines:
- Kachori sabzi
- Aloo Kachori
- Bati chokha
- Chena Dahi vada
- Choora matar
- Laaiya Channa
- Malaiyyo
- Rabri Jalebi
- Launglata
- Street foods, like dahi chutney golgappe, tomato chaat, etc.
- Thandai
- Lassi
- Banarasi Paan
These culinary treats will surely make your trip to Varanasi during the balloon and boat festival more memorable than ever.
Other Activities & Events to Increase The Cultural Value of The Balloon & Boat Festival
There will be a musical event hosted during the balloon and boat festival in Kashi where you can enjoy soulful music, dance and folklore by nationally and internationally acclaimed artists.
There will also be painting exhibitions, photography exhibitions and art competitions will be hosted for the world to witness and immerse in the culture.
Tips & Recommendations
If you are looking to attend the Kashi Balloon and Boat Festival, then here are a few tips that can help make your experience as enjoyable as possible:
- Be sure to arrive early. The best vistas typically require an early start to get there in time.
- Find a good spot for the light show. This is definitely not something you want to miss out on.
- Don’t forget to hydrate and wear sun protection throughout the day; it’s easy to get caught up in all of the excitement and forget about taking proper care of yourself when outdoors in strong sunlight for an extended period of time.
Consider these pointers as you plan for this unique cultural experience of India.
Kashi Balloon and Boat Festival Schedule:
Kashi Balloon and Boat Festival Dates: January 17, 2023
Kashi Balloon and Boat Festival Location: Central Hindu Boys School, Ramnagar and the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) grounds
The bottom line,
The Kashi Balloon and Boat Festival is a spectacular and lively event that showcases beautiful balloon and boat displays. It is a great way to spend time with family, friends, and the local community while appreciating culture, tradition and art of India. It can be both educational and entertaining as it brings together so many different forms of art.
Everyone should experience this unique festival at least once in their lifetime – you won’t regret it. From the intricate detail put into each balloon design to the sheer excitement generated by the boats racing against one another, this festival has something for everyone.
